Many people use kitchen scissors daily without ever noticing the small ridged section tucked near the handles. This toothed area may seem decorative at first glance, but it’s actually a cleverly designed multi-tool built right into the scissors. Found on most heavy-duty or multipurpose kitchen shears, this feature serves as a jar opener, nutcracker, cap gripper, and even a small bone press—all in one compact, space-saving design that often goes overlooked.

The ridges work by interlocking firmly when the scissors close, creating a strong, non-slip grip. This makes it much easier to loosen stubborn jar lids. Simply position the lid between the grooves, hold the scissors steady, and twist the jar. The added traction reduces strain on your hands and wrists, especially helpful for tight or slippery lids. The same gripping action works well on small bottles or twist-off caps that tend to be difficult to open.

That small toothed section is also surprisingly versatile beyond jars. It can gently crack nuts when squeezed with controlled pressure, and it helps grip items like twist-ties, seals, or small packaging tabs that are otherwise hard to handle. On some poultry shears, this feature even provides extra leverage for breaking small chicken bones or joints, making kitchen prep quicker and more efficient without reaching for additional tools.

Manufacturers include this ridged grip to increase convenience and maximize functionality, especially for kitchens with limited storage. While it’s durable, it’s best used for light to moderate tasks rather than extremely hard items. With proper use, this often-ignored feature transforms your kitchen scissors into a dependable little multi-tool—ready to twist, crack, and grip whenever you need a helping hand during meal prep.